Garratt Boyden is the founder and CEO of Surfing Economics. Raised in Santa Cruz, California, Garratt has spent over 25 years surfing and developed a unique perspective at the intersection of coastal infrastructure, surf tourism, and economic development. He studied Business Administration at California State University and Web Media at Cabrillo College, and has spent more than a decade leading marketing strategy for major Silicon Valley technology companies.
Garratt’s deep understanding of surfing, economics, and marketing led him to recognize the significant economic value surf breaks can generate for local communities. His mission is to help governments unlock sustainable tourism growth by developing, enhancing, and promoting high-quality surf destinations.
Growing up surfing in Santa Cruz, Garratt observed that two of the area’s most iconic waves—the Santa Cruz Harbor Mouth and the Murph Bar—were both artificial surf breaks created by harbor infrastructure and dredging operations. These waves became powerful proof that intentional coastal engineering can produce world-class surf spots. Today, that insight drives Surfing Economics’ approach: combining smart coastal design with tourism strategy to create long-term economic impact.